About knee pain
The knee is a hinge that also has to rotate slightly. It carries several times your body weight on stairs and in a squat. Pain may be felt at the front around the kneecap, along the inner or outer joint line, or behind the knee. Where it hurts and what sets it off are useful clues to the cause.
Common symptoms
- Pain at the front of the knee on stairs or after sitting
- Pain along the inner or outer side of the joint
- Swelling or stiffness
- Clicking, catching or a feeling of giving way
- Pain below the kneecap with jumping or running
Common causes
- Kneecap tracking problems
- Tendon overload
- Osteoarthritis
- Meniscus and ligament injuries
- Weak hip muscles or flat feet that change knee alignment
- A sudden increase in training
How we evaluate knee pain
We examine the knee’s motion, stability and joint line. Then we look at the hip, ankle and foot, and watch how you squat and walk. Orthopedic tests help identify ligament or meniscus involvement. If a structural injury is suspected, we will refer you for imaging.
Care that may be considered
- Chiropractic care: Extremity adjustments for the knee, hip, ankle and foot.
- Class IV laser therapy: Regularly used at the practice for knee pain.
- Shockwave therapy: May be considered for stubborn tendon problems.
- Neuromuscular re-education: Hip and leg retraining to improve how the knee is loaded.
- Active Isolated Stretching: Stretching for the quadriceps, hamstrings and calves.
Recommendations depend on your exam. Not every option suits every patient, and results vary.
Who provides care
Dr. Heath Lambert, DC evaluates and directs care, and Dr. Anthony Cruz, DC also provides chiropractic care. Massage and stretching are provided by Kim Frey, LMT.
What happens at an appointment
Your first visit covers your history, an exam and a plan. See what to expect at your first appointment, and see our fees.
Where we see patients
We see patients in Tampa at 4017 Henderson Blvd. on Mondays, and in Brandon at 911 S Parsons Ave, Suite A, Monday through Thursday. Call (813) 655-2829 or request an appointment online.
Frequently asked questions
Can you help with knee arthritis?
Arthritis cannot be reversed. Care aims to improve movement, strength and comfort, and results vary from patient to patient.
Why are you checking my hip and foot?
Both control how the knee lines up when you walk, squat and run. Problems above or below often show up as knee pain.
Should I stop running?
Not always. Reducing distance or intensity for a while is often enough. Your provider will advise you.
How many visits will I need?
It varies with the cause. You will get an estimate at your evaluation.